We are available to answer any questions you may have about our European travel products. Answers to our most frequently asked questions can be found in our FAQs. We also encourage you to visit our new online Support Community to interact with Rail Europe staff and other travelers to share information and tips about European rail travel and more. Visit the Rail Europe Support Community. If you prefer you canalso contact us by emailanytime and we will respond to you as quickly as we possibly can.

We also have a dedicated staff to assist with Group Travel. Our Group department is equipped to handle your every need when it comes to group train travel. So if you've got to put together a terrific package for a group of 10 or more travelers, just call us at 1-800-462-2577 in the United States and Canada or 1-914-682-7456 in the United States and we'd be happy to help. Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:30pm Eastern Time.

Amenities and seating options on day trains

Where can I find specific information regarding the services offered on the train I'll be taking?

We try to provide you with as many details about your train trip as possible. When you’re searching for train fares and schedules, click on the train numbers listed on the results page. Then you can click the various classes of service to view the “Meals & Concessions” and “On Board Services” tabs to see what that train offers.

If you have already booked your trip, you can find this information by browsing our train information pages

Are European trains “pet friendly”?

Generally, yes. European trains are very accepting of cats and dogs.

They’re allowed on trains, though they may need to be contained in a pet carrier or wear a muzzle or leash. Pets are not allowed on some trains in Great Britain, Spain, Ireland, Norway, and Finland. If you are traveling on an overnight train with your cat or dog, you will need to occupy the entire sleeping compartment as a courtesy to other travelers.

Currently the only animals that are permitted to travel on Eurostar are guide dogs for the visually impaired.

Some trains require advance reservations for pets. Unfortunately, Rail Europe cannot make reservations for your pet. This will need to be done locally. In general, dogs normally travel at half the fare of a second class ticket, payable directly to the conductor

What do I do if no one comes to check my train ticket or rail pass?

It’s best to keep your travel documents (train ticket/rail pass and reservation) out and ready to be checked by a conductor. If for any reason a conductor does not come by to check your ticket/pass during your entire journey, no worries. Simply get off the train at your destination station and continue with your travel plans.

Please keep in mind that you will need a valid rail pass or train ticket to travel on board trains in Europe. If your pass or ticket were not looked at, it is an unusual occurrence.

Is there WiFi onboard?

WiFi availability is increasing on European trains. This service, however, is not currently offered on ALL trains. Where it is offered, it’s usually complimentary with the purchase of a first class ticket. If you’re traveling in second class, you may incur a fee to connect to the WiFi service.

Here is a brief list of trains offering WiFi:

Eurostar

Thalys

Virgin

ICE (select trains)

Frecciarossa

Italo

SJ High Speed

Allegro

In addition, WiFi access can typically be found at many major train stations throughout Western Europe. More than likely, you’ll encounter a small fee to use the WiFi service. In some stations first class ticket/pass holders will find complimentary WiFi, usually in designated first class lounges.

Are there ATMs on board?

While there are ATMs located in most major European train stations, there are none on the trains themselves. Check with your bank to make sure that your debit or credit cards are compatible with the ATM systems in Europe. Most ATM cards in Europe require the use of a PIN code to withdraw money.

Will the train cars be air conditioned/heated?

All European trains are fully heated and almost all of them are fully heated and air-conditioned as well.

It can happen that some regional trains servicing local villages for short distances may not have air-conditioning. In these situations, travelers are permitted to open the train windows.

Are there bathrooms on the train?

Yes! Bathrooms can be found on all trains in Europe. Bathrooms are easily accessible on all trains and are frequently marked with the letters WC (Water Closet). They’re usually found at the front or back of each train car and typically include a sink, toilet and locking door.

Are European trains "child friendly"?

Many European trains have baby changing facilities and/or family friendly play areas.

Intercités trains in France, some InterCity Swiss trains, InterCity Finnish trains and ICE trains in Germany offer play areas or dedicated compartments for families with children. The Austrian RailJet is even equipped with a movie theater especially for children.

Please note: If traveling on Eurostar, you shouldn’t travel in Premier class with children. This area is dedicated and caters primarily to business travelers.

Can I open the train windows?

If you’re traveling on a slower train you may have the option to open a window, depending on the age and configuration of the car. However, most modern rail cars are air-conditioned and you won’t have the option of opening the windows.

For safety reasons, high speed trains don’t offer the option of opening windows.

Are there facilities on board for disabled travelers?

Special amenities for disabled travelers are offered on trains and at many train stations, and are clearly indicated with pictograms (for telephones, toilets, elevators, etc.).

Special equipment is also available for use by disabled travelers but must be reserved locally in advance. You can do this while you’re in Europe by inquiring at the rail station or through your hotel concierge.

Be sure to specify if you need personal assistance (whether with a wheelchair, boarding, etc.).